The City of Mount Dora has a fascinating history. The large, beautiful lake upon which the City grew is named for Ms. Dora Ann Drawdy (1819-1885), who homesteaded in the mid-1800s and befriended federal surveyors with her warm
hospitality. In 1846, the surveyors named Lake Dora for her, and years later, in 1883, the small but growing town was named for the lake.

Three years later, the town’s name was officially changed to Mount Dora to reflect the fact that the settlement rests upon a plateau 184 feet above sea level – an unusual feature in Florida.

A popular winter retreat for hunters, fishermen and boaters, The Alexander House opened in 1883 – a two-story hotel with 10 rooms. It was renamed Lakeside
Inn and remains in operation today. Visitors included Presidents Coolidge and Eisenhower, Thomas Edison, and Henry Ford.

In 1910, the town was granted a charter with Capt. John Philip Donnelly as its
first Mayor. With 371 residents, Mount Dora boasted two general stores, a
hardware store, a drugstore, two churches and a Townhall. The Mount Dora Voice
became the town’s first newspaper.

The early 1920s marked a significant boom in residential growth and business
development, and Mount Dora began the transformation from a country town into a
city.

The town of Mount Dora was eventually incorporated into a city in 1953 and has
experienced growth since that time. Today, Mount Dora is home to more than
10,000 residents. The City retains the flavor of a small town with many historic
buildings, its large canopy oak trees and is known for its variety of antique
and specialty shops and numerous special events throughout the year.

Whether you are looking for a respite from the pressures of life and seek
solitude overlooking our beautiful vistas, or you desire active shopping and
recreation to compliment our many festivals and community events, you can find it all in Mount Dora.

There are many wonderful homes in this area, but you need a local market expert
to help you. Watson Realty Corp is a locally owned company with over 40 years experience selling homes in the area.